NEWPORT-Feed My Sheep will once again host its annual Thanksgiving meal on Thursday, Nov. 26 , from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The meal will include ham or turkey and dressing, sweet potato casserole, peas, corn pudding, rolls, and dessert. Because of the large number of people who attend the annual meal, the sanctuary is being cleared out and tables are being moved into the sanctuary area.

"We welcome everyone to join us. This is not just for those in need of a warm Thanksgiving meal, this event is also for those who just want to be with others, need somewhere to go, or would just like to come and join us for good food and good fellowship," said the Reverend Dayton Livingston.

"We are expecting more than just a meal, we expect a great time of fellowship," he emphasized.

During the meal, there will be plenty of music and singing, and there will be some guest speakers addressing those in attendance.

Feed My Sheep, a ministry known as the local soup kitchen, is open from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. seven days a week. It is operated by donations and the dedicated work of volunteers. However, meals consist of much more than just soup, diners are served complete meals and are served by volunteers who take on various roles in the day to day operations. The dining area is set up much like a restaurant with volunteers acting as waitresses and waiters.

Breakfast is served on Saturday mornings from 9 to 11 a.m. The breakfast is courtesy of Lisega, who provides the food and volunteers to prepare and serve the meal.

"Right now, about 90 percent of the people we serve in the kitchen are families. These families are in need of assistance during these difficult economic times," Livingston said.

Livingston said other organizations, groups, or churches interested in sponsoring a meal or serving a breakfast or dinner are welcome.

"We want to thank all of those businesses, churches, organizations, clubs, groups, and individuals who keep Feed My Sheep going," said Livingston. "We appreciate everyone's support. Just to name a few of those businesses, supporters include Unified Marine, Lisega, Aeropro, and Food City, as well as numerous churches."

"We would like to encourage and challenge other businesses to participate and show their support," he added.

Feed My Sheep is also participating in several other benevolent programs and is working with other ministries and groups during the holidays, according to Livingston.

Donations are welcome and especially needed during the holidays. The ministry accepts food donations as well as monetary contributions. The ministry also hosts a Christmas meal a few days before Christmas Day.

For more information about the ministry, to make a contribution, or to volunteer, call Carol Livingston, the kitchen director, at (423) 721-3330. Donations may also be sent to Feed My Sheep, P.O. Box 1428, Newport, TN 37822.